A useful method of assessing whether you are malnourished is to measure your body mass index (BMI). This is a measurement that can determine if you are a healthy weight for your height.

For most adults a healthy BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9. Having a BMI under 18.5 could suggest you are at a high risk of being malnourished, although you may also be considered at risk if you have a BMI between 18.5 and 20.

However, it is important to note that BMI and weight loss are not the only indicators of malnutrition. A person can be overweight or obese and still be malnourished. This can be the result of dietary consumption of foods and drinks which are high in fat and sugar but low in vitamins and minerals.

When to see your GP

See your GP if your BMI is lower than 18.5, you have lost more than 5-10% of your body weight over the last three to six months, or you experience the symptoms listed above.

When to see your GP

Your child's weight and physical development should be regularly assessed by your GP or a health visitor in their first few years of life. As part of the National Child Measurement Programme, children in Reception and Year 6 are weighed and measured during the school year.

If you have any concerns about your child's development or health, contact your GP.

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